Meet the Builder
Bunji Goeku, a third generation boat builder, was born in Okinawa, Japan. He started learning the closely-guarded boat building techniques from his father at age 10. He won a first prize for a model ship from a department store at age 12. He had built over 3,000 wooden boats and ships during his 60-year career, and was a recipient of "Bunka Korosho", the Distinguished Cultural Merit Award from the Japanese government in 2000.
In his early 40's, Bunji had an auto accident, the injury on the head was so serious that it nearly killed him. This incident became his turning point, and he started building legendary Yanbarusens solely from his memory.
His Yanbarusens were featured at the Okinawa Marine Expo in 1975 and in NHK TV shows such as "Ryukyu no Kaze" (The Winds of Ryukyu), which was broadcasted nationwide in Japan.
His last commision was a 100-foot wooden ship, Shinkosen, a royal trade ship used to sail between Ryukyu and China. It took nine months to complete it with eight workers. When it was completed, it made news throughout the island. To lead the ship to sea, power cables were cut, streets were closed, and people in the entire island witnessed this spectacular ship being transported by land. His majestic Shinkosen "Nanto Maru" highlights the Okinawa World theme park today.
Unlike modern boat builders who rely on three-dimensional computer design software, Bunji never drew detail plans of the boats he would be building. Instead, he made models to see if the concept was feasible. His unique construction methods are still a mystery to scholars. Bunji Yachts are a fusion of his passion for technical sophistication, endless labor of love, and unsurpassed craftsmanship, coming together as the ultimate pleasure boats.
History behind Bunji Yachts
Bunji Yachts are reproductions of legendary wooden sailboats, Yanbarusens. They are also known as Maransens. With sleek hulls, they sailed fast, were easy to navigate, and provided as a vital means of transportation for the Okinawa islanders until World War II.
Constructed after a masterpiece of the late Bunji Goeku, Bunji Yachts will make a debut onto the market this year. Bunji's first son, Sam Goeku will fulfill his father's dream by building Yanbarusens that bear his name in the United States of America. Embellishing the main cabin door is the Shaw Dynasty family crest, "Hidari Mitsudomoye" . The three cyclones inside a circle represent three elements of the universe: water, fire, and earth.
Related Links
Umino Bunka
SamsGazebos.com www.samsgazebos.com
